Top 3 Things to Ask Your Financial Professional During Financial Literacy Month

Apr 19, 2018

April is National Financial Literacy Month and a perfect time to increase your financial literacy, while establishing and maintaining healthy money and finance habits.

One way you can become financially savvy is by getting advice from financial professionals. According to survey results from the Indexed Annuity Leadership Council, when seeking information or advice about finances and money, 42 percent of Americans turn to friends or family members, 41 percent rely on search engines, like Google, and only 39 percent ask a financial professional.

However, talking to a financial professional with the right knowledge can help ensure you are left with more answers than questions to help you achieve your long-term financial goals. To get the most out of your meeting and ensure a fiscally sound future, make sure to ask your financial professional these three questions.

1.How much of my income should I put toward my retirement savings? While the percentage of income that goes toward retirement savings varies from person to person, no matter how much income you make, it is important you are contributing something toward your retirement. Talk to your financial professional about your goals to assess an amount that works for you.

2. Is my portfolio diversified? Investing in your company’s 401(k) can be a great choice if your employer offers this type of retirement plan, but it is not the only option. Balancing your portfolio with options like fixed indexed annuities (FIAs) will help address many basic retirement concerns: protection of hard-earned dollars, tax-deferred growth, balance, and lifetime income.

3. Am I ready for retirement? According to a report from the Indexed Annuity Leadership Council, one in three Americans confess to stopping their retirement savings at least once. Ask your financial professional to examine your financial situation and evaluate if you are on track to meet your retirement goals. If not, see what adjustments you can make in your savings strategy to help foster financial security.